Question

Discuss the merits of Bi-Party System.

Examine the merits of bi-party system.

Examine any four merits of bi-party system.

 Explain the two advantages of a bi-party system.

Answer 1

1. Ensures real majority rule: When elections are held in a state with a bi-party system, candidates with actual majorities invariably win. Two candidates from each of the two political parties run for office in each constituency. Every time, one of them receives a resounding majority of votes. 
2. Easy choice for the voters: Voters find it very straightforward to select and express their preferences because there are only two prominent candidates from each of the two major political parties in a constituency election. They have less difficulty choosing how to vote.
3. Very useful for a parliamentary form of government: One of the two main political parties wins handily in a two-party system. The other party becomes the opposition after one party gains a majority and the authority to create the government. This is the perfect environment for a parliamentary system of government to function.
4. Stable government: A bi-party system contributes to stable governance. With a resounding majority, the majority party forms the government. It is mandated to rule by the people. This role consistently aids in the robust and stable operation of the government. The stability of the three governments that are occasionally organised in Britain has primarily been attributed to the biparty system.
5. Continuity in policies: With the support of a resounding majority, the ruling party can hold office for an entire term. It is also aware that it can win the upcoming elections if it performs well. This incentivises it to adopt and execute robust, long-term strategies.
6. Strong government: A strong government is always one that is stable and supported by a sizable majority. It can always rely on the legislature to approve its decisions and policies. It functions as a powerful and effective government since it consistently wins elections. 
7. Orderly politics: In a bi-party system, the two major political parties engage in a civil war for control. One party represents the ruling party at any particular time, while the other represents the opposition. The situation may be overturned in the upcoming elections if the ruling party does not take decisive and effective action.
8. Easy to fix responsibility: A two-party system is one in which one party rules for a set amount of time. The party in charge must take responsibility if something goes wrong. The ruler is directly accountable for enforcing the law and is also held accountable for any misbehaviour.
9. Ensures responsible behaviour of the ruling party: One party serves as the ruling party and the other as the opposition in a two-party system. Through constant criticism of the ruling party's policies and behaviour, the latter is able to keep effective control over it. The opposing party's opinions are hard for the ruling party to ignore. It takes responsibility for its actions.
10. Opportunity for a change of government: The people have the power to overthrow the ruling party's administration in the upcoming elections if it is shown to be ineffective and feeble. They can provide the opposing party its new mandate to govern. As a result, the populace finds it simpler to establish an alternative government.
11. Less chance for authoritarianism: A two-party system reduces the likelihood that those in positions of authority will abuse their influence. They are constantly governed by both the opposition party and their own party. The ruling party is aware that the opposition party is always looking for flaws and mistakes. It is also aware that it might be lowered to a minority at any time. Two, political parties alternately portray the opposition and the ruling party. Neither can act in an autocratic manner.